Most Internally Displaced People Prefer to Stay, Says New IOM Report

A recent report by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) reveals that 60% of internally displaced persons (IDPs) prefer to remain in their current locations rather than return to their communities of origin, Reliefweb reported yesterday.

The findings, part of the PROGRESS 2024 report, highlight the challenges faced by humanitarian and development partners in addressing internal displacement.

Currently, over 58.5 million people are displaced within their own countries. The report is based on over 116,000 household surveys and 463 qualitative consultations across 12 countries. Notably, 96% of those displaced by disasters for more than five years wish to stay where they are.

Safety is the primary factor influencing these preferences, with 71% of those feeling secure choosing to remain. Economic opportunities also play a crucial role, as 25% of individuals displaced for over five years prioritize livelihoods, compared to 18% of those displaced for less than a year. The PROGRESS initiative aims to inform sustainable solutions for IDPs globally.